CHARLOTTE—As well as the Panthers have played offensively this year, they could be even better in 2012 if right tackle Jeff Otah can stay healthy.

Otah is the Panthers' biggest lineman and best run-blocker when he's on the field. That's been the problem.

Otah missed the entire 2010 season and went on injured reserve after six games this year due to a recurring knee issue. Otah, who tore the lateral meniscus in his knee in a game against New England on Dec. 13, 2009, had two surgeries on the knee last year.

He did not require a third surgery and likely could have played the latter part of this season. But the Panthers thought it was best to shut him down and let him heal.

Otah's work ethic has been questioned at times, but coach Ron Rivera said he has been diligent rehabbing the knee.

“Jeff's here every day working out, doing a heck of a job. Real happy about what he's done,” Rivera said. “Truthfully, it's one of those things where you do it reluctantly, saying four to six weeks he could be healthy. But you go, 'Yeah, but what if he's not?'”

Otah, a first-round pick in 2008, is signed through next season, when he is due to make $1.1 million with a cap figure of $2.4 million.

Undrafted rookie Byron Bell has been serviceable filling in for Otah, although his sometimes-poor technique forces him to take penalties. Bell is the Panthers' most-penalized player, but has stayed healthy and remained the starter since Otah went on IR.

If Otah shows up to training camp out of shape or with his knee still bothering him, Bell could be the starter again.